Ireland's Kenny loses vote for prime minister for second time

Acting Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny again lost a vote in parliament to be re-elected premier on Wednesday, dragging out a political deadlock following inconclusive elections in February.

Needing 79 votes for election, Kenny was backed by 51 lawmakers, meaning he won the support of just one outside his Fine Gael party as the 15 independent members of parliament with whom he wants to form a minority government either abstained or voted against him.

A Fine Gael-led minority would need the consent of the second-largest party and historic rival, Fianna Fail, to allow it to govern. Kenny is due to meet Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin for the first time since the election later on Wednesday.